Makhanya keeping an eye on Messi Philadelphia Union's South African defender Olwethu Makhanya is seen keeping on Lionel Messi during a recent MLS game against Inter Miami. Photo: Rich Storry/Getty Images/AFP
Image: Rich Storry/Getty Images/AFP
Former Stellenbosch FC defender Olwethu Makhanya has announced himself on the big stage in the most unconventional way.
Earlier this week, a video of Philadelphia Union’s Makhanya roughing up global football superstar Lionel Messi during a Major League Soccer game against Inter Miami did the rounds on social media.
In the video, Makhanya is seen marking Messi closely, and when the little magician tries to make a move, the 20-year-old Durban-born defender puts him on the floor, much to the Argentinean’s annoyance.
Makhanya has been praised for standing his ground against arguably the greatest footballer the world has ever seen.
Makhanya has been slowly making a name for himself in the United States ever since completing his big move from Stellenbosch FC at the end of the 2022/23 season. In America, where he arrived still a teenager, he quietly went about his business and became a key player for reserve team Philadelphia Union II.
However, during the 2025 campaign, he’s been getting a few runs in the first team. And he hasn’t disappointed when given the chance. One thing that has helped Makhanya earn his stripes is the presence of head coach Bradley Carnell, a former Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana star who has been working in the US since 2017.
Last month, Makhanya opened up about how Carnell has helped him at the club.
“Since he’s South African, he’s also played in South Africa. I feel like he also understands the culture that I come from. It makes it easier to work with him because he just understands me better. I would also say that his message is quite clear; it’s almost like it’s up to me if I want to take the message or ignore it.”
Whether Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has taken note of Makhanya’s development in the US remains to be seen. The Belgian has in the past ignored those playing in MLS. Bongokuhle Hlongwane has starred for Minnesota United in recent years, but he earned the last of his 15 international caps in 2023.
Makhanya’s rise serves as a reminder that South African talent can thrive on the global stage with the right mix of determination and opportunity. His fearless approach against Messi was not just a statement to the world but also a testament to his growth and confidence.
If he continues on this trajectory, it may only be a matter of time before Bafana Bafana can no longer overlook him. Whether Hugo Broos takes notice or not, Makhanya has already put himself on the radar — both at home and abroad.
IOL Sport
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